Should we still have bonuses for reenlistment?

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 22 Jan 2015 19:28:09 -0500

I understand the "need" for reenlistment bonuses to keep in good Soldiers in key MOSs. With the shrinking force should we cut bonuses all together or at least make them smaller? Should it only be for AC as they are cutting back but the Army Reserves is maintaining its authorized strength?

Response by SGT Jonathan Williams made Jan 22 at 2015 7:31 PM

SGT Jonathan Williams — Thu, 22 Jan 2015 19:31:35 -0500

I think a better way to frame your question is "Under what conditions should we have bonus money available".

Bonus money is a recruitment and reenlistment tool. If you have too many people in, or too many people in accession, then you lower or remove the money. The inverse also applies.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 22 at 2015 9:12 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 22 Jan 2015 21:12:07 -0500

FOr certain MOSs there are limited numbers of people qualified, and therefore should be rewarded for a rare / unique skill-set

Response by CW5 Jim Steddum made Jan 22 at 2015 9:21 PM

CW5 Jim Steddum — Thu, 22 Jan 2015 21:21:58 -0500

Not to components, but individual specialities based on long term trends analysis.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 23 at 2015 12:18 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 23 Jan 2015 00:18:24 -0500

IF one does the math, most soldiers on the reserve side are not likely to re-up because of the bonus. It ends up generally being less than $1000/year. This can often be more then compensated for by civilian employment.

Having said that, I am looking forward to my last 25% of my $7500 this November.